Celebrating National Salvation Army Week by Honoring Our Volunteers
This year, National Salvation Army Week was celebrated locally by honoring the caring and dedicated service of hundreds of volunteers who help The Army deliver programs and services in our community.
“Whether assisting at our Food Pantry, Pop-Up Market food drives, the Lou Bachrodt Auto Mall 12 Hours of Salvation, Christmas distribution, or ringing bells at a Red Kettle, every act of volunteerism contributes to creating positive change. By lending a helping hand, our volunteers uplift individuals and families facing adversity, offering them hope, resources, and a pathway to a better future,” says Major Monty Wandling, Winnebago County Coordinator. “ We are especially appreciative of the hundreds of volunteers who help us deliver programs and services each year.”
In 1954, the United States Congress and then-President Dwight D. Eisenhower proclaimed the first National Salvation Army Week as a reminder to Americans to give freely of themselves. In his speech, Eisenhower said: “Among Americans, The Salvation Army has long been a symbol of wholehearted dedication to the cause of human brotherhood. In time of war, the men and women of this organization have brought to those serving their country far from home friendliness and warm concern. In the quieter days of peace, their work has been a constant reminder to us all that each of us is neighbor and kin to all Americans. Giving freely of themselves, the men and women of The Salvation Army have won the respect of us all.”
On Tuesday, May 14th, The Salvation Army Winnebago County held a Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon at Rockford Temple Corps. Volunteers experienced lunch served from the Emergency Disaster Services Canteen. The Salvation Army Temple Brass Band also performed special music for the event.
In addition, Governor J.B. Pritzker proclaimed May 13-19, 2024, as Illinois Salvation Army Week. The proclamation recognizes the ongoing efforts of staff and volunteers of the country’s largest nongovernmental provider of social services. It also calls on all Illinoisans to show our neighbors Love Beyond beyond struggle at a time when needs have never been greater.
